Senator Peters Urges Stronger Foreign Policy as SVG Balances Global Pressure 

By Val Matthias. Updated 10:09 a.m., Friday, February 13, 2026, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).

Senator Keisal Peters has called for greater courage and clarity in St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ foreign policy, warning that citizens deserve stronger positions on volatile geopolitical issues.

Speaking in Parliament, Peters expressed disappointment at what she described as a lack of vigour in the government’s recent foreign policy responses. She cited muted statements on Venezuela and silence on a U.S. request for SVG to accept third‑party refugees.

“The citizens want to know where we stand on these geopolitical issues and we have to be strong,” she told the parliament. 

Senator Peters highlighted SVG’s history of bold diplomatic moves, including early recognition of Palestine and the establishment of ties with Cuba under the late Sir James Mitchell administration.

“As a leader, you have to have courage. These are volatile times. The geopolitical issues affecting our region require strong leadership,” she said. 

She also noted concerns about SVG’s trade presence, pointing out that while the Prime Minister admitted the country lacks a permanent mission at the World Trade Organization, the OECS maintains an accredited ambassador.  Senator Peters recalled her own experience chairing the OECS Council of Trade Ministers and working directly with the mission. Appointed in 2022, she became the first woman to serve as Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade.

The call for stronger foreign policy positions reflects wider regional debates, as Caribbean states navigate U.S. migration pressures, Venezuelan instability, and shifting global alliances.

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